Discovering Matariki: A Celestial Celebration in New Zealand
As the mid-winter months blanket New Zealand, a special constellation reappears in the early morning sky, signifying a time of reflection, celebration, and future planning. This celestial phenomenon is known as Matariki, the Māori New Year, a cultural cornerstone rich with tradition and ancestral wisdom.
What is Matariki?
Matariki is a cluster of stars, also known globally as Pleiades or the Seven Sisters, that becomes visible in New Zealand’s night sky during mid-winter. This cluster, one of the brightest and most recognizable, contains hundreds of stars and is known by various names across different cultures: Makali’i in Hawaiian, meaning ‘eyes of royalty,’ and Subaru in Japanese, meaning ‘gathered together.’
The Significance of Matariki
Matariki holds profound significance in Te Ao Māori (the Māori world view). Its reappearance marks the end of one year and the beginning of the next according to the maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar. The celebration of Matariki is deeply rooted in Mātauranga Māori (ancestral knowledge and wisdom) and centers around three key themes:
- Remembrance: Honoring those who have passed since the last rising of Matariki.
- Celebration: Gathering together to give thanks for the present.
- Looking to the Future: Anticipating the promise of the new year ahead.
Historically, the appearance of the Matariki stars also provided essential agricultural guidance. Bright and clear stars were a sign of a bountiful season, influencing planting, harvesting, and hunting practices.
When is Matariki?
Matariki is celebrated from late May to early July, with specific dates varying by tribe and region. The first public holiday to honor Matariki was celebrated on June 24, 2022. In 2024, Matariki falls on Friday, June 28. The best time to view the cluster is early morning, just before dawn.
How to Celebrate Matariki
Modern Matariki celebrations are vibrant and communal, involving:
- Sharing kai (food) with friends and whānau (family)
- Singing songs, telling stories, and playing music
- Remembering loved ones who have passed
- Giving thanks for the past year
- Planning and setting intentions for the year ahead
Whether it’s enjoying a festive feast, planting a garden, or simply spending quality time with loved ones, Matariki is about reconnecting with home and family.
Spotting the Matariki Stars
To witness Matariki’s beauty, look towards the northeast horizon before sunrise. Find Tautoru (Orion’s belt), and then move your gaze northward until you see a tight cluster of stars. This is Matariki, a sight that has inspired and guided many for centuries.
